UMVA has learned that a chilling warning has been issued by serial killer Keith Jesperson, known as the "Happy Face" killer, regarding the impending prison journey of Rex Heuermann, the Gilgo Beach killer.
Jesperson, who has been exchanging letters with Heuermann from prison, believes that the former architect's large ego will make him vulnerable to a harsh reality check when he's transferred to a state prison later this month. "The problem with Rex is his size — he thinks prison will be a cake walk because of how big his ego is," Jesperson warned.
According to Jesperson, Heuermann's imposing stature won't shield him from the brutal realities of prison life. "I had to tell him the little guys work out too, to beat up us big guys. He will have some fights, even in protective custody," Jesperson revealed.
Heuermann, who is 62, and stands at nearly 7 feet tall, will be relocated to a state prison after his formal sentencing on June 17. Jesperson's ominous warning suggests that Heuermann may face difficulties, including potential violence from other inmates.
Jesperson, who has admitted to killing eight people himself, also hinted that Heuermann might be "tossed to the wolves" by prison guards at some point. The serial killer's words of caution come as Heuermann prepares to receive multiple consecutive life sentences for the murders of eight women.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Jesperson and Heuermann have been exchanging letters for months, with Jesperson urging Heuermann to plead guilty. Heuermann took Jesperson's advice, and pleaded guilty to the murders in April.
As Heuermann faces sentencing, his ex-wife Asa Ellerup has announced that she will not attend the proceedings, choosing instead to focus on the victims and their families. Her decision is a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of Heuermann's crimes.
The Suffolk County District Attorney has stated that investigators do not believe Heuermann's family was involved in his crimes. Jesperson's correspondence with Heuermann offers a unique glimpse into the mindset of a serial killer, and the challenges that lie ahead for Heuermann as he navigates the harsh realities of prison life.